Jeremy Bernstein moved silently through the Dust city, his eyes scanning the crowded streets for any sign of his target. The sweltering summer heat hung heavy in the air, causing sweat to trickle down his neck beneath his tactical gear. This woman, whose name remained unknown but whose handiwork was unmistakable, had proven to be an elusive quarry.

Killing heroes here and there meant she was a villain. But she'd also eliminated numerous villains, saving innocent people from those monstrous humans. That made her a hero in some eyes. Whatever her true allegiance, her intentions weren't clear and none of his business anyway. The Hero Clan had instructed him to eliminate the unwanted force, and he intended to follow orders.

"Man, this heat is going to kill me," he muttered, wiping sweat from his brow. "I don't like summer at all."

A sudden chill ran down his spine. That bloodstained aura was unmistakable. It had to be her. Jeremy moved with practiced efficiency, quickly locating the source—a figure standing alone in the shadows of an alleyway.

Thirty minutes later, both combatants stood exhausted, barely on their feet. Jeremy wiped his own blood from his cheek, his breathing ragged but his focus unbroken.

"What are you after? What are your motives?" he demanded, giving the woman time to formulate her answer. Whatever she said next would determine whether he continued fighting until she was dead or began questioning everything he thought he knew.